China’s Ambassador Wang Di cautioned Canada against using its relationship with China as leverage in U.S. trade talks, while extending an offer for a free trade agreement if investment barriers are lifted. Diplomatic ties remain strained since 2018, complicated by Canadian tariffs and retaliatory Chinese measures. Wang advocates for cooperation in energy trade and mutual respect to mend relations.

China’s ambassador to Canada, Wang Di, has warned against using China’s relationship as a “bargaining chip” in trade negotiations with the United States. He emphasized China’s readiness to engage in a bilateral free trade agreement, provided that Canada eliminates barriers to Chinese investment. Furthermore, he asserted, “China firmly respects Canada’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Relations between China and Canada have been tense since 2018 when Canadian authorities arrested Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou at the request of the United States. This led to China detaining two Canadians in retaliation. Despite a resolution in 2021, the diplomatic climate remains strained. Canada began discussions with China regarding a free trade agreement in 2017, but progress has stalled.

In recent months, Canada has adopted a more assertive stance on trade with China, matching U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. As a result, China imposed retaliatory measures impacting Canadian exports such as canola, pork, and seafood. Additionally, Canada has restricted Chinese investments in critical sectors and banned certain Chinese technologies. Wang noted that negotiations for a trade agreement would require cooperation from both parties and was optimistic about the potential to build on the 2017 discussions.

Moreover, Canada is expanding its energy exports to China, including oil from the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion and liquefied natural gas from the upcoming LNG Canada project. Ambassador Wang expressed China’s interest in purchasing energy from Canada, contingent upon competitiveness in quality and pricing. He advised Canadian energy executives to seek government support for improved cooperation.

Efforts for a free trade agreement face challenges due to existing frictions. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly commented on China’s execution of dual Canadian-Chinese citizens for drug offenses. Wang defended China’s legal decisions as neutral, stating, “You will be treated in an equal way by the Chinese law” regardless of nationality.

Wang criticized accusations by Canadian officials alleging that China interferes in Canadian elections as “completely unjustified, groundless accusations.” During his tenure in Canada, he aims to foster constructive relations and has noted engagements between Canadian and Chinese officials. He highlighted a desire from various Canadian sectors to strengthen bilateral cooperation and appealed for mutual respect to advance shared interests.

In conclusion, while China has expressed willingness to negotiate a free trade agreement with Canada, several geopolitical tensions, including trade tariffs and accusations, pose significant obstacles. Ambassador Wang Di emphasizes mutual respect and cooperation as vital for progress. The evolving energy trade landscape and efforts to safeguard bilateral relations will be critical as both nations navigate their complex interactions.

Original Source: www.ttnews.com

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